Assault Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Defense Options?
An assault charge in New Kent County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in New Kent County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended.
Virginia Assault Laws and Penalties
Assault and battery in Virginia is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-57 as an unwanted touching or an act intended to cause bodily harm, coupled with the present ability to do so. The statute covers simple assault, assault and battery, and assault against a family or household member (domestic assault).
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand the local court procedures and prosecution strategies used in New Kent County.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the Virginia assault statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-57 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for New Kent County is available at the New Kent County Combined Courts website.
Local Court Process for Assault Charges
All misdemeanor assault cases in New Kent County begin at the New Kent County General District Court at 12001 Courthouse Circle. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes these cases. Prosecutors often seek convictions that can impact employment, housing, and professional licenses. Our team, including former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, uses insight into how cases are built to identify weaknesses early.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your assault lawyer New Kent County will obtain all police reports, witness statements, and evidence from the prosecution.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge may be filed based on procedural errors or lack of probable cause.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your attorney will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge.
- Appeal or Expungement: If convicted, you can appeal to New Kent County Circuit Court for a jury trial. If the charge is dismissed, you may file for expungement.
Potential Penalties for Assault in New Kent County
In New Kent County, a simple assault or assault and battery conviction is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500. Enhanced penalties apply for assaults against specific protected persons.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, possible protective order |
| Assault on Law Enforcement, etc. (§ 18.2-57(C)) | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory minimum 6 months for certain officials |
| Domestic Assault (same statute) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory anger management, no contact orders |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Experience and Authority
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing a unique perspective on building a strong defense. We have a documented history of achieving dismissals and reductions for clients facing assault charges.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results and Defense Strategy
In New Kent County, we have 4 documented criminal defense results: 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 1 charge reduced or amended. For example, our team has successfully argued self-defense, lack of intent, and insufficient evidence to secure assault charge dismissed lawyer New Kent County outcomes. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. Every case is different, and we develop a defense based on the specific facts and evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Assault Defense Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients in New Kent County, providing representation at the New Kent County General District Court. We serve the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for assault in New Kent County, Virginia?
Up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Simple assault is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57. Cases are heard at New Kent County General District Court. Enhanced penalties apply for assaults on police officers or other protected persons.
Can an assault charge be dismissed in New Kent County?
Yes. An assault and battery defense lawyer New Kent County can seek dismissal through pretrial motions, diversion programs for first-time offenders, or by demonstrating a lack of evidence at trial. Successful completion of a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can result in dismissal.
What is the difference between assault and battery in Virginia?
Under Virginia law, assault is an attempt or threat to do bodily harm, while battery is the actual unwanted touching or harmful contact. The charges are often combined as “assault and battery” and prosecuted under the same statute, Va. Code § 18.2-57.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor assault charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor conviction can result in jail time and creates a permanent criminal record. An assault lawyer New Kent County can protect your rights, negotiate with the prosecutor, and represent you at trial to fight for the best possible outcome.
How does self-defense work in an assault case?
It depends. Self-defense is an affirmative defense in Virginia. You must have reasonably believed you were in imminent danger of bodily harm and used no more force than necessary. An attorney can present evidence, including witness testimony, to support this defense.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby jurisdictions like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges, explore our New Kent County DUI Lawyer or New Kent County Family Lawyer pages.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for the most current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.